USA: A Pakistani man found guilty of the plot to assassinate American leaders

A jury in New York found Asif Merchant, a 48-year-old Pakistani, guilty of conspiracy to assassinate American political figures, including Donald Trump, with the help of the Iranian government. Merchant, who pleaded not guilty, claimed he was forced to participate in this plot to protect his family in Tehran.

He was arrested in July 2024 by the FBI. Merchant stated that he was tasked with finding a hitman to organize acts of violence and mentioned the names of Trump, Joe Biden, and Nikki Haley as possible targets. The trial took place against the backdrop of tensions between the US and Iran, and Tehran denied allegations of involvement in assassination plots. Merchant faces a life sentence, and the sentencing will be determined later.